Petone Winter Carnival 2016 shows Hutt Valley spirit

Saturday’s Petone Winter Carnival saw more than 22,000 people heading to Petone Esplanade for one of the biggest days out this winter.



2016 marks the tenth time Petone Winter Carnival has been held. Favourite events like the Hutt City Council Fireworks were joined by marshmallow toasting on the beach, circus performances, bands and performances, stalls, food trucks and stalls, rides and free activities along Petone Esplanade.

With temperatures reaching just 8°C, the Polar Plunge had to be cancelled for safety reasons. This didn’t stop some from braving the cold waters of Wellington Harbour anyway, and they received spot prizes for their courage.

Courtney Johnston, Director of Museums at Hutt City Council said “Petone Winter Carnival is traditionally our busiest single day at Petone Settlers Museum, and we had 600 people through the doors this year. It was terrific to host so many people after our extensive renovations earlier this year, and feedback was very positive.”

Carla Steed, Events Manager at Hutt City Council said “Visitors took over 6000 rides, the Rockin’ Tug and Bungy Tramp rides being particularly popular for the young ones, and the Scream Machine again a firm favourite for those a little older. We want everyone to be able to have a great time at the Carnival, and so we keep the cost of rides low, with most just a dollar each.”

The Hutt City Council Fireworks closed out Petone Winter Carnival just before the start of the Super Rugby final, and were visible from the hills around Lower Hutt and Wellington Harbour.

Petone Winter Carnival capped off a bumper weekend for the Wellington region, with 39,000 attending the Super Rugby final at Westpac Stadium on Saturday evening.